The Limoncillo Method
The Limoncillo Method is a U.S.-based framework designed to structure negotiation and the resolution of complex conflicts. It is based on discovering mutual interests, using scenario-based questionnaires to help parties move beyond their initial positions and find alternative resolutions. Inspired by classic negotiation theory and Harvard's famous citrus metaphor, the method offers mediators a modular system to support de-escalation in complex conflicts. Its thoughtful structure aims to build facilitators' confidence and help establish security in its practical and respectful use.
Dedication
Dedicated to my negotiation teachers and to every mediator who seeks conflict resolution using empathy and respectful listening. Thank you for insisting on the path of dialogue, even when it seems closed or is difficult.
Acknowledgment of Conceptual Inspiration
The Limoncillo Method was inspired in part by the well-known citrus metaphor, often cited in negotiation literature, especially in teaching materials from the Harvard Law School's Program on Negotiation. This metaphor gave a profound shape to the method's philosophy: discovering underlying interests instead of getting stuck in superficial positions. We gratefully acknowledge this fundamental idea and its lasting impact on interest-based negotiation practices worldwide, which have been a guide in the development of our method.
Title and Overview
Title
The Limoncillo Method
Subtitle
A Scenario-Based Approach to International and Territorial Conflict De-escalation.
Executive Summary
The Limoncillo Method presents a structured negotiation framework that guides parties in conflict through scenario-based multiple-choice questions. Each answer encourages neutral decision-making by linking to very specific political, economic, or strategic outcomes. The main objective is to identify the root of problems by discovering both the unilateral(individual) interests of each party and the multilateral (shared) ones to find paths for resolution. The purpose is to shift the focus from historical blame to future benefit, accelerating peace processes and allowing for meaningful and dignified engagement.
Background
Many negotiations become deadlocked due to deep-seated issues and emotional narratives with a "win-lose" mentality. The Limoncillo Method was created to overcome these obstacles through a structured, scenario-based approach to conflict resolution. It is based on negotiation theory, which focuses on each party's interests to find shared benefit. Inspired by frameworks taught at institutions like the Harvard Law School's Program on Negotiation, it offers mediators a neutral, forward-looking process designed to identify mutual gains and unlock stalled dialogue through strategic cooperation.
Problem Statement
The method addresses the following challenges:
  • The lack of emotionally neutral negotiation tools.
  • The "win-lose" mentality in territorial or identity disputes.
  • The inability to visualize shared and non-territorial benefits.
  • Negotiation fatigue and deadlock due to a past-focused approach.
Method Components
5.1 Thematic Blocks
The Limoncillo Method is built around five modular focus areas, which can be used independently or in sequence depending on the context:
Block A: Territorial Considerations
Addresses land, borders, and control mechanisms.
Block B: Economic Incentives
Explores economic cooperation, development, and mutual benefit.
Block C: Security and Sovereignty
Focuses on de-escalation, guarantees, and long-term trust mechanisms.
Block D: Diplomatic Recognition and Soft Power
Addresses cultural legitimacy, symbolism, and international presence.
Block E: Future Cooperation and Shared Development (optional)
Fosters a vision beyond the conflict, exploring investment, human connection, and building a legacy.
5.2 Scenario-Based Questionnaire
Each block contains multiple-choice questions structured to identify each party's true interests. The answers are linked to specific political, economic, or social outcomes.
5.3 Outcome Mapping
Answers are associated with visible consequences, helping participants to clarify the concessions, shared opportunities, and strategic benefits they can explore.
5.4 Reflection Questions
The incorporated reflection spaces invite participants to express their emotions, motivations, and willingness to reconsider whether new reflections, perspectives, or opportunities can generate a real change in the conflict. These questions help to deepen empathy and open new paths.
5.5 Adaptability
The Limoncillo Method is designed to be flexible and can be used in different types of conflicts and cultural contexts. It works well in formal peace conversations, academic simulations, unofficial diplomacy, or in local dialogues for reconciliation, always prioritizing neutrality, structure, and dignity.
How to Use the Method
Who
Mediators, facilitators, diplomatic teams, academic groups.
Where
Formal peace processes, conversations with the UN or third parties, simulations, or Track II diplomacy.
How
Use one or more blocks per session; allow time for open reflection; document all selections and proposals.
Outcomes
Create a "Negotiation Map" that documents key decisions, points of flexibility, and areas of emerging consensus.
Use Cases
  1. A. Peace negotiations between states or factions.
  1. B. Reconciliation dialogues at the community or local level.
  1. C. Diplomatic training programs and university simulations.
  1. D. Post-conflict reconstruction planning.
  1. E. Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs).
General Questionnaire
  • A. Thematic Blocks: Each thematic block (A to E) will maintain its key components.
  • B. Questions: Structured questions based on geopolitical scenarios.
  • C. Options: Different response options linked to specific geopolitical outcomes.
  • D. Benefits: Benefits from new dialogue agreements, with multilateral goals that are positive and advantageous for both parties.
  • E. Open Spaces: Open spaces for reflection and proposals.
Intended Outcomes
A. Dialogue
Promote neutral and interest-based dialogue.
B. Resistance
Reduce emotional resistance.
C. Gains
Clarify future shared gains through dialogue, understanding, and new multilateral agreements.
D. Tool
Provide a structured and transparent tool for mediators.
E. Cooperation
Encourage scalable decisions oriented toward future cooperation and multilateral benefits.
Humanitarian Declaration Without Patent
This method is offered free of charge and without restrictions as a contribution to the facilitation of global peace. To foster a sense of shared connection and purpose among all its users, the universal applicability of this method is recognized regardless of its geographical location or the specific conflicts they are addressing.
Limoncillo Method Questionnaire
Introduction to the Questionnaire

This introduction is dedicated to the parties who, despite their differences and firmly believing their arguments are just, have chosen to explore peaceful alternatives. Sometimes, conflict exists because both parties are right. Other times, because neither is. And that is precisely what makes resolution so difficult. This space does not seek to determine blame or validate one version over the other. It's about discovering what part of the lemon each side needs and how those pieces could fit together in ways that have not yet been imagined. Let the questions begin.
Facilitator's Guide: How to Use The Limoncillo Method
Purpose
This guide is intended for mediators, diplomats, educators, and facilitators who wish to implement The Limoncillo Method as a structured tool for conflict de-escalation and strategic cooperation.
Overview
The Limoncillo Method uses modular, scenario-based questionnaires to help parties:
  • Explore mutual interests.
  • Clarify negotiation options.
  • Reduce emotional polarization.
It is particularly useful in contexts involving political, territorial, or identity-related disputes.
Implementation Steps
Select the Relevant Thematic Blocks
Choose the appropriate block(s) depending on the nature of the conflict:
  • Block A: Territorial Considerations.
  • Block B: Economic Incentives.
  • Block C: Security and Sovereignty.
  • Block D: Diplomatic Recognition and Soft Power.
  • Block E: Future Cooperation and Shared Development.
Each block is independent and can be used individually or in sequence.
Present Scenario-Based Questions
Introduce each scenario clearly. Each question contains four multiple-choice options, each linked to specific political, economic, or strategic outcomes.
Tip: Share printed or digital copies to encourage detailed reflection and written responses.
Guide Reflection Using Supporting Questions
After answering the main questions, participants complete reflection questions that foster emotional insight and flexibility in negotiation.
  • E. Suggest an alternative solution.
  • F. Identify the potential benefits of your suggestion.
  • G. Explore the emotions or experiences that influenced your choices.
  • H. Indicate if you would reconsider your answers under new guarantees or incentives.
  • I. Specify which one(s) and under what conditions.
Facilitate Dialogue
Encourage open discussion by:
  • Highlighting overlapping interests.
  • Identifying patterns in the responses.
  • Exploring shifts in position through reflection.
Document the Process
Record each party's responses, emotional and strategic reflections, and alternative proposals. Compile this information into a "Negotiation Map," a written or visual summary of key decisions, points of flexibility, and areas of consensus.
Repeat or Expand as Needed
As trust develops, certain blocks can be revisited or new ones introduced. The method's modular design allows for iteration and adaptation over time.
Recommended Time Per Block
Note on Flexible Use
Although the time estimate above applies to live or in-person sessions, The Limoncillo Method can also be adapted for remote or asynchronous use. The questionnaire can be distributed before a conflict, during early tensions, in the midst of active negotiations, or as part of post-conflict reconstruction. The parties can complete the questions privately (on paper or digitally) and return them to a neutral facilitator. This allows for careful, low-pressure reflection and enables an early mapping of shared concerns, flexible areas, and potential solutions, even when direct communication is not yet possible. This approach can serve as a pre-dialogue tool, an early warning system, or a post-conflict healing instrument, depending on the stage of the interaction.
Best Practices
  • Ensure a neutral, trained facilitator leads the session.
  • Create an emotionally safe and respectful environment.
  • Do not rush the reflection phase, as it is fundamental to gaining transformative insights.
  • Observe emotional patterns and shifts in strategic thinking over time.
Deliverables After Each Session
  • A Negotiation Map (digital or printed).
  • Individual reflection records (optional).
  • A list of shared interests or emerging proposals.
  • Follow-up actions or conditions for revising stances.
The Limoncillo Method – Respect and Confidentiality Protocol
Purpose
To ensure that all participants engage with The Limoncillo Method in a respectful, safe, and confidential environment. This protocol must be reviewed and accepted before any responses are shared, whether privately, with a facilitator, or within a group.
Core Participation Rules
1
Respectful Language Only
All participants agree to avoid any form of verbal or written insults, ridicule, or hostile language. Kindness and clarity are the foundation of this process.
2
Confidentiality and Consent-Based Sharing
Responses to this questionnaire may contain sensitive emotions, strategic ideas, and personal reflections. Participants have the right to grant or deny permission for how their responses are shared.
3
No Public Commentary or Rumors
No participant, facilitator, or observer may publicly comment on, joke about, or spread others' responses—regardless of the content or format—without explicit, written consent.
4
A Safe Emotional Space
This is not a space to win an argument. It is a space to reflect, express, and explore possibilities. All emotions are valid and will be treated with dignity.
5
Informed Institutional Use
Any intention to submit this document to a third party (e.g., UN, academic institution, archive) must include the express consent of all involved parties.
Information-Sharing Preferences
Please indicate how you wish your responses to be shared. You may select more than one option if applicable:
  • ☐ A. Share only with the facilitator/mediator → Ensures privacy while enabling guided dialogue.
  • ☐ B. Share with both the facilitator and the other party → Allows open exchange and joint reflection.
  • ☐ C. Custom sharing (please describe): → e.g., "Only share Block A and Block E with the other party."
  • ☐ D. Public sharing permitted → For publication, training, or public awareness (requires confirmation below).
If you selected Option D, please confirm:
☐ I understand this means my responses may be published or used for public training purposes. I grant permission on the condition that they are used respectfully and in context.
Optional: Data Storage and Return Preferences
Please select your preference regarding the storage of your responses:
  • ☐ My responses may be archived for future peace research (with names removed).
  • ☐ My responses may be returned to me after the process.
  • ☐ Please delete or destroy my responses after facilitation.
  • ☐ I would like a copy sent to a specific institution (please specify):
Signature & Acknowledgment (optional but recommended)
I acknowledge that I have read and understood the Respect and Confidentiality Protocol of The Limoncillo Method. I agree to uphold these principles during and after the process.
Name: __________________________________________
Date: __________________________________________
Signature (digital or physical): __________________________________________
Final Note
This method was designed with care—for your dignity, your voice, and your story. These rules are not about control. They are about protecting what matters most: your ability to be heard without fear.
Initial Reflection – Before You Begin
In your own words, describe why you believe this conflict started. What emotions, events, or misunderstandings brought us to this point?
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Opening Question: Shifting Perspective
What would need to happen for you to change your perspective on this conflict and begin to see it as an opportunity rather than a struggle? List 1 to 4 possible outcomes, such as new economic agreements, access to resources, or strategic alliances.
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Block A: Territorial Considerations
P1. If shared control over a disputed area were necessary for peace, what format would your party most likely accept?
Joint administration under international observation.
→ Benefit: Reduces tensions and guarantees neutral accountability.
Rotational leadership model with pre-established governance terms.
→ Benefit: Maintains mutual presence while postponing the final status.
Neutral local civil administration agreed upon by both parties.
→ Benefit: Preserves local integrity and avoids direct control conflicts.
None. Total control is the only acceptable option.
→ Consequence: May prolong conflict and limit international support.
P2. Would your party accept non-political access (cultural, religious, or economic) to a disputed region without having formal sovereignty?
Yes, with freedom of movement and guaranteed rights.
→ Benefit: Protects cultural or economic interests while reducing political pressure.
Yes, under a supervised bilateral agreement.
→ Benefit: Builds trust without requiring formal recognition.
Only if there is a gradual path toward future recognition.
→ Benefit: Preserves long-term claims while allowing cooperation.
No. Access must come with full political recognition.
→ Consequence: Risk of deadlock and continued border tension.
Reflection and Proposal Section (Block A)
E. Additional Proposal:
Do you have an alternative suggestion or a question related to the options or the topic of this section?
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Block A Reflection: Benefit Analysis
F. Benefit Analysis:
What potential benefit could your suggestion generate (for example, economic, political, or strategic)?
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Block A Reflection: Emotional Insight
G. Emotional Insight:
What fear, experience, or expectation related to this conflict influenced your choices in this section?
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Block A Reflection: Condition for Reconsideration
H. Condition for Reconsideration:
Would you reconsider any of your answers if alternative guarantees or benefits were offered (such as foreign investment, contracts, cultural exchanges, or trade agreements)?
[Yes] [No]
I. If so, which one(s) and under what conditions?
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Block B: Economic Incentives
P3. What kind of economic incentive would make a compromise on sovereignty or political status more acceptable?
Long-term development financing with shared oversight.
→ Benefit: Stabilizes the economy and supports infrastructure reconstruction.
Access to a trade corridor or a shared customs agreement.
→ Benefit: Boosts mutual exports and cross-border cooperation.
Joint management of key natural resources.
→ Benefit: Fosters collaboration and reduces competition.
No economic incentive would justify a territorial compromise.
→ Consequence: Missed opportunity for mutual recovery.
P4. What level of economic cooperation would your party support as a mechanism for building trust?
A bilateral investment fund for public goods (health, energy, education).
→ Benefit: Supports long-term social development for both parties.
Debt forgiveness or international aid conditioned on peace progress.
→ Benefit: Alleviates fiscal pressure and rewards cooperation.
Cross-border employment initiatives.
→ Benefit: Creates bonds between people and reduces hostility.
No cooperation until sovereignty is fully resolved.
→ Consequence: Slower recovery and lost growth potential.
Reflection and Proposal Section (Block B)
E. Additional Proposal:
Do you have an alternative suggestion or a question related to the options or the topic of this section?
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Block B Reflection: Benefit Analysis
F. Benefit Analysis:
What potential benefit could your suggestion generate (for example, economic, political, or strategic)?
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Block B Reflection: Emotional Insight
G. Emotional Insight:
What fear, experience, or expectation related to this conflict influenced your choices in this section?
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Block B Reflection: Condition for Reconsideration
H. Condition for Reconsideration:
Would you reconsider any of your answers if alternative guarantees or benefits were offered (such as foreign investment, contracts, cultural exchanges, or trade agreements)?
[Yes] [No]
I. If so, which one(s) and under what conditions?
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Block C: Security and Sovereignty
P5. If de-escalation were needed to prevent violence, what type of security arrangement would your party most likely accept?
International peacekeeping forces in buffer zones.
→ Benefit: Immediate de-escalation with third-party oversight.
Joint security patrols with international monitors.
→ Benefit: Maintains local presence while building mutual trust.
Civilian police under neutral supervision.
→ Benefit: Reduces military risks and supports the rule of law.
No change: Total control must be maintained.
→ Consequence: Continued tension and limited progress.
P6. What type of sovereignty guarantee would help build long-term trust?
A legally binding non-aggression treaty.
→ Benefit: Guarantees stability and clear boundaries.
Participation in regional defense dialogues (non-aligned).
→ Benefit: Builds diplomatic trust without formal alliances.
Recognition of internal autonomy without external interference.
→ Benefit: Preserves dignity while reducing control disputes.
Total independence is the only acceptable guarantee.
→ Consequence: May escalate demands and deadlock negotiations.
Reflection and Proposal Section (Block C)
E. Additional Proposal:
Do you have an alternative suggestion or a question related to the options or the topic of this section?
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Block C Reflection: Benefit Analysis
F. Benefit Analysis:
What potential benefit could your suggestion generate (for example, economic, political or strategic)?
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Block C Reflection: Emotional Insight
G. Emotional Insight:
What fear, experience or expectation related to this conflict influenced your choices in this section?
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Block C Reflection: Condition for Reconsideration
H. Condition for Reconsideration:
Would you reconsider any of your answers if alternative guarantees or benefits were offered (such as foreign investment, contracts, cultural exchanges, or trade agreements)?
[Yes] [No]
I. If so, which one(s) and under what conditions?
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Block D: Diplomatic Recognition and Soft Power
P7. What form of symbolic recognition would help build trust without full diplomatic recognition?
Cultural or educational exchange agreements.
→ Benefit: Fosters mutual respect at non-political levels.
Neutral joint declarations that acknowledge shared history or suffering.
→ Benefit: Reduces public hostility and humanizes the conflict.
Participation in international forums under a non-state designation.
→ Benefit: Allows for visibility and a voice without debates on status.
None. Recognition must be total or not at all.
→ Consequence: Limits progress in symbolic and emotional healing.
P8. What gesture from the other party would demonstrate good faith in this process?
A public commitment to respectful language and tone.
→ Benefit: Improves communication and reduces provocation.
Support for humanitarian aid in disputed regions.
→ Benefit: Shows compassion and builds moral authority.
Opening neutral cultural or academic missions.
→ Benefit: Signals openness without political pressure.
No gesture is acceptable without a total resolution.
→ Consequence: Perpetuates distrust and prolongs tension.
Reflection and Proposal Section (Block D)
E. Additional Proposal:
Do you have an alternative suggestion or a question related to the options or the topic of this section?
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Block D Reflection: Benefit Analysis
F. Benefit Analysis:
What potential benefit could your suggestion generate (for example, economic, political or strategic)?
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Block D Reflection: Emotional Insight
G. Emotional Insight:
What fear, experience or expectation related to this conflict influenced your choices in this section?
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H. Condition for Reconsideration:
Would you reconsider any of your answers if alternative guarantees or benefits were offered (such as foreign investment, contracts, cultural exchanges, or trade agreements)?
[Yes] [No]
I. If so, which one(s) and under what conditions?
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Block E: Future Cooperation and Shared Development
(Optional block designed for vision and post-conflict capacity building) This block is designed to shift the lens from immediate conflict to long-term opportunity. It supports future-oriented thinking by identifying economic, human, and emotional bridges that can endure beyond the dispute itself.
P9. Key Exports: What can your party offer? What are the most important goods, services, or knowledge resources currently available for export or exchange? Please list the key items and, if possible, include quantity or frequency. (e.g., textiles – 10,000 units/month; citrus – seasonal)
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P10. Key Needs: What does your party need most? What goods, services, or support does your party need most at this time? List the main priorities and, if possible, provide an estimated quantity or frequency. (e.g., medical supplies – monthly; solar panels – a single shipment)
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P11. Initial Avenues for Cooperation: Although direct cooperation seems difficult now, which of the following options would your party consider?
  • Cultural or educational exchange without a political agreement. → Fosters mutual understanding through non-political channels.
  • Technical cooperation on neutral topics (e.g., environment, water, agriculture). → Builds trust without touching sovereignty or borders.
  • Silent trade or exchange through third parties. → Allows for benefits without direct recognition.
  • No cooperation is possible at this time. → Your position is taken into account and respected.
Optional – Your own proposal:
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What conditions would help you reconsider this in the future?
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P12. Humanizing the Other: What two things do you sincerely admire about the other party: their people, their culture, their history, or their resilience? (e.g., "They have shown great courage under pressure"; "Their music and traditions are beautiful").
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Purpose: To interrupt narratives of enmity and reintroduce human connection. Even small gestures here can change the tone of the negotiation.
P13. Legacy Vision: Beyond the Conflict: Imagine this conflict has been resolved with mutual dignity. What would you like future generations (on both sides) to say about how it ended? (e.g., "They chose wisdom over pride"; "They found a way to share without losing themselves").
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Purpose: To broaden perspective, from tactical pain to historical pride. This question invites participants to co-write a shared legacy.
P14. What Investments Would They Welcome?: What types of investments would your party be willing to receive to support post-conflict recovery or development?
  • Infrastructure (transportation, energy, clean water). → Allows for long-term stability and job creation.
  • Education and workforce development. → Builds human capital and reduces future tensions.
  • Agriculture and land revitalization. → Supports food security and rural livelihoods.
  • Technology and digital connectivity. → Prepares future generations for global integration.
  • None; we are not open to external investment at this time. → May limit development opportunities and external support.
Optional – Specific Interests: Please list any sectors or projects your party would gladly welcome over the next 1 to 5 years.
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P15. What Support Could They Offer?: What kind of support, partnership, or investment could your party offer the other as a gesture of goodwill?
  • Technical assistance in agriculture, health, or education. → Strengthens trust and shared development.
  • A joint investment fund for reconstruction. → Creates visible, tangible cooperation.
  • Offer trade preferences or resource-sharing agreements. → Builds long-term economic interdependence.
  • None; we are not prepared to offer support at this time. → Can be perceived as a lack of willingness to build trust.
Optional – Additional Proposal or Message of Goodwill:
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Emotional Insight: What motivated your willingness (or your hesitation) to offer support?
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Final Note: From Conflict to Collaboration
This method is offered freely as a guide to those currently in conflict—no matter how deep their pain—toward a resolution with vision, dignity, cooperation, and shared economic growth. We are inspired to understand each other better, without seeking blame or winners, and only aiming for mutual care. True strength does not lie in proving who is right, but in building what comes next, together. When the path forward seems unclear, may this method serve as a compass for cooperation and understanding. When the world seems divided, may dialogue become the bridge.
"War often leads to devastation, displacement, and economic hardship, all of which can deepen poverty for generations. Dialogue, on the other hand, can plant the seeds of shared prosperity." — Inspired by the wisdom of ancient texts
May future generations look back and say: They paused. They listened to each other. They chose cooperation, and with it, peace.
With all due respect and my best wishes for a future of dialogue, humanity, and cooperation,
Angela Cristina Kanner
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